The Snapback Ain't Real... Update!
I just wanted to provide a quick update about my most recent fitness challenge… #thesnapbackaintrealchallenge. In my previous post, I discussed my frustration with the societal pressures placed on new moms to snap back to their pre-baby bodies instead of truly focusing on the healing associated with child birth. While I do not necessarily agree with the focus placed on the physical appearance, I do agree with the importance of living and maintaining healthy lives so that we can be the best versions of ourselves.
Now that you’re all caught up, let’s get to the challenge update. For me this challenge gave me a better sense of awareness, in all areas of my life. I have been more present in my thoughts and actions as opposed to just going through the motions, day to day. I realize that I cannot embark upon any task (big or small) or challenge without prayer and dedication. Participation in this challenge called me to be more prayerful about everything. I had to pray through some workouts and pray away some unhealthy food choices. This mindfulness and prayerfulness transferred into all areas of my life. I continue to be prayerful about EVERYTHING, which helps to provide a sense of calm in times of worry as well as a sense of reassurance in times of doubt.
The challenge also allowed me to realize the effects of carbs on my body. Carbs (the tasty ones) and I really don’t mix. I’m kind of sad about it. When I started the challenge, I was strictly adhering to the keto diet. I saw immediate results in my appearance (skin was poppin’), my weight (pounds dropped) and my energy (I felt amazing). But then I got weak, y’all! I gave into to my not so healthy cravings for carbs and sugar. But this is really not my fault. It’s y’all’s (From the Southern vernacular: the plural of y’all, you all) fault. Let me tell you why. Every last person that said or did any of the following: Complimented me on my weight loss, told me that I was looking good or said they could really see a difference in my appearance. That L belongs to y’all! Every compliment had me feeling like I had earned the opportunity to treat myself to some type of carb loaded goodness. So the next time you see me dropping inches just send silent positive vibes my way because obviously my ego can’t take overt praise! :-) But seriously, I learned some of my vices. I’m always looking for the positive out of the negative and will use these as learning experiences. Positive talk and prayer are key. Physically, the Lord gave me everything that I need to be fit, but he also gave me free will; which leaves the responsibility of following through up to me and me alone.
Since halfway through the challenge, I have not been strictly following the Keto diet. I am constant mental battle to make better decisions than I did prior to the challenge. However, with that being said, I am more conscious of my eating patterns. I now recognize when I’m CHOOSING to eat things that I shouldn’t instead of mindlessly putting crap in my body. I know that if I decide to eat a burger or a piece of cake that I’ll probably be sluggish and bloated, as a result. I then have to evaluate if it’s really worth it or not.
In addition to monitoring my eating, I joined Camp Gladiator boot camp. Boot camp is a pretty intense workout regimen. The camps are held outside of the clubhouse in my neighborhood and I usually attend the 5am sessions. My trainer’s motto is Rain, Sleet or Shine… We Grind!!!! While I appreciate his dedication and always showing up for camp, I am not about that working out in the rain life. I’d like to say that I made all of my workouts, but I admit that I missed some as I intended to workout 3x per week. Missing those workouts did put a hiccup in my plans, but it also compelled me to become creative with my workouts because everything isn’t always going to line up as you would ideally want. I used my lunch break and time after work to make up for some of my work outs.
So did I pass or fail the challenge??? Just by getting started… Heck yeah, I passed! That is the key in so many areas of life. I was successful not only because I managed to lose a few pounds, but because I was intentional about starting the journey to the healthiest version of myself. This is just the beginning. In this next phase of #thesnapbackaintrealchallenge, I plan to increase my accountability. I have already enlisted my cousin and a co-worker. I realize that there is power in numbers and accountability.
I am really excited about Phase 2 of #thesnapbackaintrealchallenge!! I cannot wait to actually knock out some goals. In phase 1, I only focused on getting started without any pressure or potentially disappointment associated with missed milestones.
I hope that you feel encouraged to start and/or continue your journey in health, wellness and fitness. The journey will not be perfect. It may even take longer to get to the destination, but just stay the course. It will pay off in the end. Even if you have to do some reframing and restarting… just don’t quit! Keep your goals and support system in mind as they will help push you through.
On to Phase 2 of #thesnapbackaintrealchallenge, Suburban Chic Moms!
I’m always willing to brainstorm, encourage or pray with you. As I grow stronger, I want to help build other women up, too. Please feel free to message me here.